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Optimum Energy Helps Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) Achieve Significant Energy Savings

Optimum Energy Helps Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) Achieve Significant Energy Savings

Published
05 September 2024

VUMC Achieves Significant Energy Savings and Rebate Incentive Through Innovative Optimization Strategies

Recently, Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) partnered with Optimum Energy to introduce advanced control strategies at the Vanderbilt University Hospital Chilled Water Plant. These new controls lower operational costs, energy usage, and CO2 emissions. This approach, known as Chiller Plant Optimization, was developed by Optimum Energy and is powered by our OptimumLOOP® optimization platform.

OptimumLOOP® employs relational control algorithms to calculate the most efficient way to operate an entire chilled water system. Through continuous and automatic optimization, plant performance is dynamically adjusting in real-time to changes in demand or weather. This technology ensures minimal energy usage and maximum cost savings, without compromising indoor-air comfort for building occupants.

As a result of these upgrades, VUMC anticipates an annual energy cost savings of over $251,000, and a reduction in CO2 emissions by over 1.9 million pounds per year.

Furthermore, with the assistance of Nashville Electric Service and Hobbs and Associates, VUMC secured an incentive rebate of $243,854 through the TVA EnergyRight® for Business & Industry rebate program. The combination of the above energy savings and rebate creates a return on investment (ROI) of less than 1.4 years for the overall project.

Over the past five years, VUMC Facilities Management has actively pursued various strategies to reduce electrical consumption on its main campus. These efforts include chiller plant optimization, the implementation of fault detection software to monitor equipment performance, occupancy setback controls, LED lighting upgrades, HVAC equipment upgrades, and leveraging rebate opportunities like the TVA EnergyRight® program.

Collectively, these initiatives have resulted in a total savings of $7.5 million over the past five years, including $2.8 million in the last 12 months alone. All while also avoiding the creation of more than 52 million pounds of CO2.

Optimum’s Jesse Ohm Awarded Pump Management Patent: The Next Step for Large-Scale Fluid Pumping Automation

Optimum’s Jesse Ohm Awarded Pump Management Patent: The Next Step for Large-Scale Fluid Pumping Automation

Published
05 August 2024

Introduction

Jesse Ohm, P.E., Principal Engineer at Optimum Energy has been awarded a patent for his new system centered on the optimization of multiple pumps using advanced computational techniques. This innovative solution has the potential to drastically improve the process in which commercial and other large-scale facilities manage their fluid flow distribution systems, while gaining an increase in energy efficiency, cost savings, and overall system performance.

Patent Overview

The newly awarded patent outlines Ohm’s method for optimizing pump staging through a computer-readable medium containing instructions executed by an automation system.

 “It became apparent after observing conventional control systems that the industry needed a simple and repeatable way to calculate when to stage pumps up and down,” said Ohm. “The goal was to create a universal calculation that remained applicable under any operating conditions.” The method encompasses several key components:

Peak-Efficiency Range Determination

An automation system enhanced with the pump staging algorithms automatically identifies the peak-efficiency operating range for the pumping system. Defining the stage limits based on real-time data allows any automation system to optimize the system’s pump staging control.

Real-Time Dynamic Calculation

Continuous monitoring of the fluid-flow rate and pump speeds allows for real-time optimized stage calculations. When the fluid-flow rate drops below the algorithm’s dynamic stage-down threshold, a pump is deactivated. Conversely, if the fluid-flow rate exceeds the stage-up threshold, an additional pump is activated automatically. Since the thresholds are dynamic and based on live data, the ideal staging is continuously evaluated and works under any operating conditions.

Threshold Calculations

Thresholds for stage-up and stage-down operations are continuously recalculated from live data, based on the following inputs:

  1. A reference design fluid-flow rate at the manufacturer’s full speed peak efficiency point also known as the “Best Efficiency Point”.
  2. The live system flow rate.
  3. The active number of operating pumps.
  4. The current operating speed of the pumps.

Additional Features

  1. The peak-efficiency range and thresholds only require a single user data input (the pump’s best-efficiency point) making it easy to calibrate for each application.
  2. Stage thresholds are automatically calculated based on live operating conditions.
  3. The inputs do not require maintenance or recalibration unless physical changes are made to the pumping equipment.
  4. Equipment staging events can be limited through an automation system to any specific use case to control frequency of pump staging.

Why This Patent Matters

Energy Efficiency, Cost Savings, and Sustainability

Reduced Energy Consumption: The system activates or deactivates pumps based on real-time demand, ensuring the lowest energy use. Energy savings translate directly into reduced utility bills fewer greenhouse gas emissions, supporting environmentally friendly operations and net-zero goals.

Maintenance Cost Reduction: Maintaining pumps within their peak efficiency range can significantly reduce energy usage and decrease wear and tear, extending pump lifespan and reducing costly maintenance and downtime.

Resource Conservation: Efficient resource use aligns with sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility goals for the ESG-minded.

Improved Performance

Consistent Fluid Flow: By maintaining the pumping system in the peak efficiency operating range, the system maintains a stable and consistent fluid flow rate and pressure, crucial for processes that require precise fluid management at various pressure requirements.

Adaptability to Demand Fluctuations: The system efficiently manages varying demand levels, suitable for applications with fluctuating fluid flow and operating pressure requirements. Systems that leverage a wide range of operating pressure requirements (such as systems with pressure re-set strategies) will gain even greater advantage from the dynamic thresholds since the live data inputs automatically compensates for changes in operating pressure.

Responsiveness and Flexibility: Dynamic adjustments allow the system to swiftly respond to changes in both flow and pressure, boosting overall performance and reliability. This approach can be scaled to different sizes and types of pumping systems, offering flexibility for diverse applications, regardless of scope or industry.

Conclusion

Ohm’s method for dynamically managing pump operations represents a significant advancement in fluid flow management for large-scale facilities. By leveraging real-time data and advanced computational techniques, this system offers unmatched benefits in energy efficiency, cost savings, performance, sustainability impact, and operational flexibility. This innovation has the potential to set new standards in sustainable and efficient pump management. Industries and facilities reliant on large-scale fluid operations should consider this solution when evaluating their best course of action in the pursuit of financial, operation and sustainability-focused goals.

Celebrating World Environment Day

Celebrating World Environment Day

Published
18 June 2024

On June 5th we celebrated World Environment Day which serves as a crucial reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and preserve our planet.  

Throughout history, human activities have altered the Earth’s ecosystems, leading to unprecedented levels of environmental degradation. From deforestation to the rampant use of fossil fuels, our actions have far-reaching consequences for the planet and future generations.  

But there is a light in this tunnel. Amidst these challenges lies the opportunity for positive change and a chance for us to come together to solve what may be the most challenging issue facing our generation: Climate Change.  

This act of coming together is exactly what World Environment Day celebrates. We are encouraging individuals, communities, governments, and businesses to join forces and explore sustainable solutions to environmental issues. 

At Optimum Energy we take great pride in knowing we get to be part of that solution. We feel incredibly fortunate to come to work every day and make a positive impact on the global environment. This passion for sustainability is embedded in the very DNA of our organization and as such we asked our team members to share what World Environment Day means to them: 

“Optimum Energy has prevented a whopping 3.5+ BILLION pounds of CO2 from being released into our atmosphere! This is a huge win for our planet and a testament to our partners and their commitment to sustainability. Let’s keep up the great work and continue to make a positive impact for everyone on the planet. Here’s to a greener, cleaner future!”

– Larry Stapleton, CEO

“With atmospheric levels of CO2 at an all-time high, I’m honored to work for a company with a mission to reduce building emissions all over the world. When today’s consumers and regulatory systems are hyper-focused on corporate carbon footprints, Optimum Energy helps companies get closer to net zero. Optimizing HVAC infrastructure with intelligent software to reduce emissions is a super approachable concept for businesses to lean into. It’s a simple approach to a radical idea of clean air, AND it saves companies millions of dollars annually. ” 

– Kay John, Senior Project Manager for Optimum Energy 

As we celebrate World Environment Day 2024, let us renew our commitment to protecting our planet and building a sustainable future for all. By embracing sustainable solutions and working together, we can create a world where nature thrives, and future generations can thrive alongside it.  

The Crucial Nexus: Trust and Cybersecurity in Operations

The Crucial Nexus: Trust and Cybersecurity in Operations

Published
01 June 2024

Facilities managers, security officers, and executives are tasked with a myriad of responsibilities such as optimizing energy efficiency, ensuring the comfort and safety of occupants, and protecting their assets and investments. In the modern era, where technology underpins nearly every aspect of a business’s operations, the importance of trust and cybersecurity cannot be overstated. This article explores the critical relationship between trust and cybersecurity in operations.

 I. The Inextricable Link: Trust and Cybersecurity

Trust is the cornerstone of any successful business. In the realm of operations, trust is the assurance that the systems and equipment will perform reliably, efficiently, and safely. It encompasses the belief that the technology supporting the operation will not fail or pose any risk to the occupants and the environment. There is also a large degree of trust that is built between service and parts providers and the company running the building or facility. This trust is paramount as facilities managers are typically not installing, repairing, or providing support diagnostics for every component or system. They rely on building optimization providers to ensure that chillers are operating within normal parameters, sensors are providing reliable data points, and their building management systems (BMS) are optimizing their building operations.

Cybersecurity, on the other hand, is the foundation upon which this trust is built. It is a set of practices, technologies, and protocols designed to protect digital systems, data, and the entire operation from malicious intent or inadvertent breaches. In today’s world, where building systems have become more sophisticated and interconnected, the relationship between trust and cybersecurity is particularly critical.

II. The Vulnerabilities in Building Operations

HVAC systems and other building management devices are no longer standalone mechanical devices; they are now an integral part of building management systems (BMS). Modern HVAC systems have sensors, controllers, and connected devices that enable remote monitoring, control, and automation. While this advancement provides numerous benefits, it also opens the door to vulnerabilities.

Cyberattacks on Building Automation Systems

With the proliferation of interconnected systems, Building Management Systems have become attractive targets. This has been the case with companies like Target in 2013 when they suffered a massive data breach. Attackers gained access to Target’s computer network and stole financial and personal information. [1]The full report from the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation can be found here.

IoT Devices and Weaknesses

IoT devices can be known for their inherent weaknesses when it comes to security. Many IoT devices are not adequately protected, making them easy entry points for hackers. These devices often lack firmware updates, have default passwords, and are susceptible to common attack methods. In 2019 Amazon’s Ring cameras were breached and reports of customers being hacked were popping up globally (Read the court hearing here). [2] Amazon provided a security patch that has since shored up the problem.

Human Error

With all the security in the world, companies can never forget about the human element. While firewalls and anti-virus software can continually buffet outside attacks with relative success, employees who unknowingly click on a phishing email can open the door wide open to security breaches. There are many examples of this occurring, robust and frequent security training is paramount for today’s companies to stay secure. Moss Adams, an IT and Cybersecurity Consulting Firm, goes into greater depth on the risks of human error in their article “How to Identify Top Cybersecurity Threats and Protect your Organization”.[3]

III. Building a Trustworthy System

While all these vulnerabilities are frightening to think about, operations managers and security officers can take some steps to ensure their operations remain secure.

First, businesses must also develop strong relationships with their service providers to ensure security is a cornerstone of the products and services they provide as these products and services are directly linked to the company’s facilities.

Building Optimization providers like Optimum Energy (OE) are committed to continuing to provide first-in-class security procedures and policies for its clients and stakeholders.

Risk Assessment and Management

Identifying and understanding the risks associated with building systems is the first step. Facilities managers in conjunction with their BMS provider should conduct a comprehensive risk assessment, considering factors such as the type of equipment, its connectivity, and the potential consequences of a breach. With this information, they can develop a risk management plan that outlines security measures and incident response procedures. For providers like Optimum Energy, these policies and procedures are built into OE’s products and services.

Implement Strong Access Controls

Access controls ensure that only authorized personnel can modify building system settings. To enhance access security, use strong authentication methods, like two-factor authentication (2FA). Additionally, regularly review and update user access privileges to limit the potential damage in case of a breach.  

Encryption and Data Protection

Operational data, such as temperature and humidity settings, are not required to be encrypted. But any sensitive data such as healthcare, personal identifiable information (PII), and payment information should be encrypted during transmission and storage. This prevents attackers from intercepting or tampering with data as it flows between devices and control systems. Security managers should establish data retention policies to minimize exposure in case of a breach. It is also imperative that facility or security managers understand how their BMS provider is handling their data. Providers like Optimum Energy provide redundancies within their data centers that keep their client’s data secure and untampered.

Continuous Monitoring and Response

Real-time monitoring of operational systems is essential to detect anomalies and potential security breaches. A strong BMS provider typically has an intrusion detection system (IDS) and/ or third-party security services to monitor network traffic and system behavior 24/7. In the event of an incident, having a well-defined incident response plan in place is crucial to minimize damage and downtime.

High Standards for Service Providers

While building optimization providers should be highlighting their cybersecurity prowess and certifications, facilities managers also have a responsibility to ask questions about security and trust. Service and BMS providers should be equipped with various cyber security certifications and have a robust risk management plan to ensure that if an attack does occur, their software or hardware is blocking the malware or attack.

Providers like Optimum Energy’s commitment to security is emphasized by their SOC2 Type 1 certification. This mark of compliance indicates OE’s commitment to strong data transfer controls and security of customer data. This type of certification requires periodic audits, proving that a building optimization provider meets the industry’s highest standards of security and data protection.

IV. Conclusion

Trust and cybersecurity are inextricably linked in the world of operations. A breach in the security of a building’s systems can result in dire consequences, including financial losses and reputational damage. Businesses and service providers must prioritize cybersecurity as an integral part of their operations to maintain the trust of stakeholders, ensuring that building systems and business operations function reliably and securely. 

Building Optimization providers like Optimum Energy provide not only cutting-edge solutions, but security infrastructure and protocols designed to protect its systems and, by extension, their client’s interests. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, where building systems continue to become more interconnected and sophisticated, the onus is on operations managers, security officers, and service providers to stay ahead of potential threats and vulnerabilities. By adopting a proactive approach to cybersecurity, facilities managers can build a foundation of trust in their building systems that not only safeguards the facility and its occupants but also enhances operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the long run.

[1] https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/24d3c229-4f2f-405d-b8db-a3a67f183883

[2] https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/16630199/1/orange-v-ring-llc/

[3] https://www.mossadams.com/articles/2021/09/identify-top-cyberthreats

Honoring the Backbone of Efficiency on World Facility Management Day

Honoring the Backbone of Efficiency on World Facility Management Day

Published
15 May 2024

Every May, the world celebrates World Facility Management Day. It is a day dedicated to recognizing the vital role facility management professionals play in ensuring the efficiency, functionality, and safety of buildings across the world.  

Facility management is a multifaceted discipline that touches virtually every aspect of our daily lives, from the office buildings where we work to the hospitals where we receive care, the schools where we learn, and the stadiums where we gather for entertainment. You cannot get through the day without benefiting from their tireless efforts.  

World Facility Management Day provides a platform for recognizing and celebrating the achievements of facility management teams worldwide. Whether it is implementing innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency, maintaining occupant comfort through thoughtful design and programming, or responding swiftly and effectively to unforeseen challenges, facility managers demonstrate resilience, creativity, and ingenuity in their daily practices.  

As we celebrate World Facility Management Day, Optimum Energy would like to take a moment to express our gratitude to the resolute professionals who work tirelessly to keep our built environments running smoothly. Your partnership and dedication to your craft is unparalleled and we are grateful to work in such a tremendous field! 

Optimum Energy’s Retro-Commissioning Services Offer Significant Building-Side Savings

Optimum Energy’s Retro-Commissioning Services Offer Significant Building-Side Savings

Published
15 May 2024

The operation of mechanical and building automation systems play a crucial role in maintaining comfortable and compliant spaces. Over time building operations can become inefficient due to factors such as aging equipment, outdated controls sequences, and changing operational needs. 

Optimum Energy’s Engineering Solutions group provides the expertise and technical resources to design and implement all Retro-Commissioning and BAS Upgrade services. Optimum has developed a process that comprehensively and systematically optimizes the performance of existing building systems to ensure they operate at peak efficiency.  

Retro-Commissioning focuses on existing buildings and can deliver substantial benefits including energy savings, improved comfort, extended equipment life and reduced maintenance costs.  Typically, our Retro-Commissioning services payback between 12 and 18 months. This makes it an invaluable investment for facility teams, and offers another path to funding projects that otherwise would have been out of budget.   

By conducting a detailed assessment of your facilities, controls sequences, and operational parameters, our Retro-Commissioning experts can identify opportunities for optimization and implement interventions to improve performance and drive savings. 

As your organization seeks to navigate the complexities of sustainable building management, our Retro-Commissioning services offer a proven pathway to improved efficiency, reduced operating costs, and enhanced sustainability. 

We would love to discuss if Retro-Commissioning could be a tool that would benefit you and your team. Please reach out to Alex Lee at alex.lee@optimumenergyco.com to discuss further.   

Optimum Energy Celebrates Remarkable Hall of Fame Award Winner 

Optimum Energy Celebrates Remarkable Hall of Fame Award Winner 

Published
10 May 2024

When it comes to innovation and excellence, there are organizations who not only set the standard but continually set the bar higher and inspire others along the way. Today, we proudly honor one such organization who has shown unwavering dedication to the optimization of their facilities– our esteemed Hall of Fame Award winner, Clemson University. 

“After spending the last several years working with Matt Holbrook and team, I can proudly say that the group at Clemson University are amongst the best in the world. They not only meet the highest level of standards for facilities management, but continuously raise the bar and improve the quality of life for those on campus. Because of this, it is only fitting we induct Clemson University into our Optimum Hall of Fame for their continued commitment to optimization throughout their facilities.”

-Larry Stapleton, CEO

At Optimum Energy, we are not just a company. We are a community of visionaries, innovators, and trailblazers committed to shaping a future powered by clean, safe and healthy technologies. Every year, we have the privilege of recognizing an organization that embodies this same spirit, and this year’s recipient truly stands out among the brightest stars! 

Clemson University has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to excellence in energy optimization and facilities management. Their work embodies the values that are at the core of Optimum Energy – operational efficiency, business continuity, asset management and a relentless pursuit of excellence. They are not just leaders in their field; they are mentors, collaborators, champions of progress, and now, members of the Optimum Energy Hall of Fame. 

As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Clemson University. To our Hall of Fame Award winner – thank you for inspiring us, challenging us, and reminding us of the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. We are honored to have you as part of the Optimum community, and we look forward to continuing this journey together towards a brighter, more sustainable future! 

Optimum Energy Celebrates Earth Day 

Optimum Energy Celebrates Earth Day 

Published
16 April 2024

Every year on April 22nd, people around the world come together to celebrate Earth Day. This time can be used to recognize our planet’s beauty while acknowledging its fragility. It is also the perfect time to renew our commitment to protecting our planet for future generations.  

One of the most pressing issues facing our planet today is climate change. The Earth is changing at an unprecedented rate because of human activities like burning fossil fuels, transportation, deforestation, and industrial agriculture. The consequences of these modern practices can be seen in climate shifts worldwide.  

While we need to understand our impact, Earth Day is also an opportunity to celebrate the progress we have made and the innovative solutions that exist as answers to the problems mentioned. Across the globe, individuals, communities, businesses, and governments are taking meaningful steps to reduce their carbon footprint, just like you 

Your continued partnership with Optimum Energy is making a massive impact in the fight against climate change. Lifetime, our partners reduced the CO2 output of their facilities by over 3,550,000,000 lbs. 

This Earth Day, let us recommit ourselves to protecting our plant. As we look ahead on both the challenges and the opportunities before us, let us be motivated by the words of environmentalist and author Rachel Carson: “In nature, nothing exists alone.” By working together, we will ensure a healthier, more vibrant planet for generations to come.  

Thank you for all your partnership and Happy Earth Day! 

Elevating Your Optimization Experience: Introducing Our New Technical Success Department

Elevating Your Optimization Experience: Introducing Our New Technical Success Department

Published
16 April 2024

Optimum Energy is thrilled to announce the launch of our Technical Success Department. This addition underscores our unwavering commitment to not just meeting, but exceeding, your expectations. At Optimum Energy, we believe in building lasting relationships with our customers, and this department represents a significant step forward in ensuring your satisfaction and success. 
 
So, what exactly is Technical Success, and why is it so important? 
 
It’s about proactively engaging with you, our valued customers, to understand your unique needs and challenges, and providing tailored solutions and touchpoints to help you achieve your goals.  

Our team is built upon the five pillars of Technical Success: 

Personalized Support: Our dedicated team of Technical Success Managers will work closely with you to understand your goals, business objectives and how we can best support you in achieving them. Whether you’re a new customer just getting started or a long-time partner looking to optimize your use of our software and services, our team will be there every step of the way to provide personalized guidance and support. 
 
Proactive Problem-Solving: Instead of waiting for issues to arise, our Technical Success team will work proactively to identify and address any potential roadblocks to your success. We partner closely with our Support department to monitor your data so we can communicate opportunities to drive further savings or provide timely solutions when an issue arises. All of this is done with one goal in mind- helping you exceed your annual goals.    

Building Stronger Relationships: At the heart of Technical Success is the belief that strong relationships are the key to long-term success. By investing in our Technical Success Department, we are not just providing better support; we are deepening our commitment to building lasting partnerships with each and every one of our customers. 
 
Continuous Improvement: Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to continuously improving and evolving our efforts based on your feedback. Our Technical Success team will serve as a direct line of communication between you and our internal teams, ensuring that your voice is heard and that we are always striving to deliver the best possible service and solutions.  
 
Maximizing ROI: We understand that investing in Optimum Energy is a significant decision for your business. Our Technical Success team is dedicated to helping you maximize the return on your investment by ensuring that you are getting the most value out of our offerings and helping you achieve your goals. We will be closely monitoring the optimization levels for your location and proactively communicating any opportunities to drive additional savings. 
We will be transitioning your accounts in a very structured way to make sure that you receive the white glove treatment you deserve. In the coming weeks and months, you can expect to hear more from our Technical Success team as they reach out to introduce themselves and learn more about how we can best support you. We are incredibly excited about this new chapter in our journey and are confident that it will lead to even greater success for all of us. 

Quarterly Award Winners, Q1 2024

Quarterly Award Winners, Q1 2024

Published
15 April 2024

Quarterly Award Winners Achieve Remarkable Savings with Optimum Energy!

In the realm of corporate achievements, there are milestones that stand out not just for their significance but for the profound impact they have on an organization’s trajectory. Every quarter we honor our partners for their exceptional efforts in using our technologies to achieve great things in their organizations. Today we highlight those with the most significant operational savings across their facilities over the last 12 months. Collectively, these awards recipients have saved $12.5 million.

At Optimum Energy, we always strive for excellence in all aspects of our operations, and our commitment to efficiency, cost reduction and sustainability is no exception. Every quarter, we recognize partner organizations who are leaders in their pursuits of excellence, and this quarter’s award winners have truly set a new standard!

With unwavering discipline and innovative thinking, our award winners have leveraged their Optimum Energy technology and spearheaded a series of optimization initiatives aimed at reducing energy costs within the organizations. Their efforts have not only resulted in significant financial savings but have also transitioned into a reduction of their organization’s carbon footprint.

As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to our quarterly award winners. Your dedication, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made a tangible difference. We are incredibly grateful for your efforts!